- How do I choose a Home Inspector?
Call up and ask about their credentials and experience. If for some reason you don’t feel comfortable asking this of the inspector when speaking with them on the phone then how will you feel asking questions at the inspection. You must feel that the inspector is qualified, experienced and attentive of your needs.
- What qualifications or credentials should a home inspector offer?
The very best qualifications and credentials consist of years of field experience, continuing education and membership in the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI).
Members of ASHI(R) have met rigorous technical and experience requirements. To become an ASHI member, an inspector must pass two written technical exams, have performed a minimum of 250 professional fee-paid home inspections, and maintained his or her candidate status for no less than six months. ASHI Members are required to follow the society’s Code of Ethics, and to obtain continuing education credits in order to keep current with the latest in building technology, materials, and professional skills.
- What will the inspection cover?
A thorough Inspection covers everything from roof to the foundation.
Items that are included in the Inspection are as follows: - Attic
- Insulation
- Ventilation
- Roof & Flashings
- Gutters
- Basement
- Crawlspace
- Foundation
- Grading
- Retaining Walls
- Siding & Trim
- Driveways & Walks
- Ceilings
- Floors
- Walls
- Doors & Windows
- Chimney
- Fireplace
- Major Appliances
- Electrical System
- Water Heater
- Plumbing System
- Air Conditioning
- Heating
- How long will the Inspection take?
Most Inspections take about three to four hours. These times may vary depending on the size, age & condition of the home.
- Should I be present during the Inspection?
We recommend that you be present at the site of the inspection, from start to finish.
- Why use our Services?
The purchase of a new home is one of the single most costly investments that a family will make. Along with the extra stresses this will add, there is also the fear factor of, “Will This Home Stand The Test of Time?” It is also important to know what YOU, as the primary investor, are getting for your money.
A home inspection is an excellent tool for you, the home buyer, to help determine not only the condition of the home, but to also help foresee any immediate unnecessary additional cost that may go unnoticed without the help of a home inspection. Home inspections are not a prediction of future performance, but can pinpoint existing problem areas.
- Why can't I have someone in my family who is very handy or a contractor, inspect my new home?
This is the biggest mistake many potential new homeowners make when purchasing a home. Although the person you are considering may be very skilled, they are not trained or experienced at professional home inspections. Professional home inspection is a unique skill like no other. Professional inspectors get what we call an inspector’s instinct for problems. That instinct takes extensive training and lots of experience doing inspections to develop. Many contractors, and other trades professionals hire a professional home inspector to inspect their homes when they make a purchase.
- What if I have questions after the inspection?
You can call us and discuss all the aspects of your new home whenever you like. Our service is a long-term investment.